Select a day to replace the detailed forecast below. 8 forecast days are available here.
Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather20/100Poor
Wind25-45 mph westerlyGusts50-60 mphFeels like-6 to -2°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate15%Cloud base through day500-1,300 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 06:58 · Sunset 19:24 · 12.4 hours daylight
The day on the hill
Strong gusts and frequent summit cloud on Creag Meagaidh: summit wind broadly 25-45 mph, with gusts 50-60 mph at times (strong winds).
Wind & exposure
Much calmer lower down - generally 15-25 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind.
Cloud & views
Cloud base around 500–800 m through the morning, lifting to 1000–1300 m by late afternoon. Summit cloud is likely, but brief clear spells remain possible if the cloud sits higher than expected.
Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.
Cloud may hang lower on western slopes and lift somewhat on the eastern side, but local terrain can differ. Any sunshine may be confined to lower ground or breaks away from the summit.
Rain & temperature
The ground is likely to be saturated after recent rain. Expect boggy paths and rapid runoff if more rain arrives.
Some rain is likely, totalling up to around 2 mm, but its timing and local amounts are uncertain. Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 0 to 4°C, feeling around -6 to -2°C in the wind.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.
If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly. Keep a dry warm layer protected.
Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud, even where forecasts agree on the wider cloud cover.
Cloud-free timing: Around 5% early, improving to around 30% later.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 1.8 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 25-40 mph. Gusts around 50-60 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind. Rain is forecast during this period.
14/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorSummit winds around 20-35 mph. Gusts around 40-50 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind.
25/100
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 900 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 30 mph at times. Lower sheltered ground may be less exposed, but this forecast does not confirm a suitable pitch or a safe approach. Check its overnight conditions separately.39/100Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Sunday 20 September 2026
Full overnight outlook
Exposed camping is not recommended near 900 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 30 mph at times. Lower sheltered ground may be less exposed, but this forecast does not confirm a suitable pitch or a safe approach. Check its overnight conditions separately. Open-hillside camping looks poor overall around 600 m (39/100). Peak gusts range from about 30 mph at 300 m to 45 mph at 900 m. A little rain may coincide with pitching or packing up. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 300, 600 and 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 6.3°C at 300 m to 4.7°C at 900 m.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 20 Sep, 17:00 BST to 21 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m59/100 · mixed
Wind / gust
15 mph / 31 mph
Typical / low
7.4°C / 6.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
17 mph / 38 mph
Typical / low
7.4°C / 6.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m19/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
20 mph / 44 mph
Typical / low
5.8°C / 4.7°C · several hours
In cloud
67% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
The ground is likely to be very wet after recent rain. Expect boggy approaches and choose a durable pitch carefully.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 55 mph may affect balance on exposed rock.Poor0/100View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Micaceous psammite (Creag Meagaidh Psammite Formation). Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Semipelite, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 55 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust53 mphRain1.2 mm
Main factorsgusts around 55 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
2 rock types appear across the available route samples
The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.
Summit mapping
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation794–1,126 m samplesSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
BGS record →
Route sample
SemipeliteArdair Semipelite FormationAround 582 mSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaCloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-09-20. All times are UK local time.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 21 Sep, 03:00 BST to 04:00 BST.
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
Moon-free dark sky: 20 Sep, 23:35 BST to 21 Sep, 04:50 BST.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
20 Sep, 21:35 BST to 22:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
20 Sep, 22:00 BST to 23:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
20 Sep, 23:00 BST to 21 Sep, 00:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
21 Sep, 00:00 BST to 01:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
21 Sep, 01:00 BST to 02:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
21 Sep, 02:00 BST to 03:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
21 Sep, 03:00 BST to 04:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
21 Sep, 04:00 BST to 04:50 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Gibbous moon, about 69% illuminated.
Moonrise around 20 Sep, 17:55 BST.
Moonset around 20 Sep, 23:35 BST.
Full darkness: 20 Sep, 21:35 BST to 21 Sep, 04:50 BST.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Draconids: peak around 9 October 2026.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Orionids: peak around 21 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 166 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Creag Meagaidh on Sunday 20 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Wind20-35 mph westerlyGusts35-45 mphFeels like2 to 6°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate5%Cloud base through day600-900 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:00 · Sunset 19:21 · 12.3 hours daylight
The day on the hill
Light rain for several hours on Creag Meagaidh: summit wind broadly 20-35 mph, with gusts 35-45 mph at times (strong winds). Hill cloud may make navigation difficult, with very poor visibility in wetter spells.
Wind & exposure
Much calmer lower down - generally 10-20 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.
Cloud & views
Cloud base mostly around 600–900 m through daylight. Cloud is likely to cover the top for most or all of daylight, with no dependable break.
Cloud may hang lower on western slopes and lift somewhat on the eastern side, but local terrain can differ. Very little direct sunshine is likely, with extensive cloud.
Drizzle is forecast for much of the day. The forecast total is up to around 2 mm, but local amounts will vary.
Forecast models differ on summit wind strength: around 26-36 mph at walker height, with gusts 37-51 mph. Exposed tops may feel chilly in the wind.
A windproof layer will help, with an extra warm layer for stops. If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly.
Keep a dry warm layer protected. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges.
Rain & temperature
The ground is likely to be wet after recent rain.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 0 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period.
24/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period.
22/100
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 50 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 35 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out.19/100Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Monday 21 September 2026
Full overnight outlook
Exposed camping is not recommended near 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 50 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 35 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (19/100). Peak gusts range from about 35 mph at 300 m to 50 mph at 900 m. A little rain may coincide with pitching or packing up. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 300, 600 and 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 10.7°C at 300 m to 8.9°C at 900 m.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 21 Sep, 17:00 BST to 22 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
22 mph / 35 mph
Typical / low
11.3°C / 10.7°C
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m19/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
26 mph / 42 mph
Typical / low
11.3°C / 10.7°C
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
31 mph / 49 mph
Typical / low
9.8°C / 8.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 2-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 8°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 40 mph may affect balance on exposed rock.Poor0/100View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Micaceous psammite (Creag Meagaidh Psammite Formation). Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Semipelite, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 40 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust42 mphRain1.8 mm
Main factorsgusts around 40 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
2 rock types appear across the available route samples
The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.
Summit mapping
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation794–1,126 m samplesSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
BGS record →
Route sample
SemipeliteArdair Semipelite FormationAround 582 mSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaClearer spells are possible, but other forecasts keep much of the sky obscured by cloud.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-09-21. All times are UK local time.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 22 Sep, 00:00 BST to 01:00 BST.
Clearer spells are possible, but other forecasts keep much of the sky obscured by cloud.
Moon-free dark sky: 22 Sep, 01:00 BST to 04:50 BST.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
21 Sep, 21:35 BST to 22:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
21 Sep, 22:00 BST to 23:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
21 Sep, 23:00 BST to 22 Sep, 00:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects.
22 Sep, 00:00 BST to 01:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Clearer spells are possible, but other forecasts keep much of the sky obscured by cloud.
Forecast models disagree.
22 Sep, 01:00 BST to 02:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Clearer spells are possible, but other forecasts keep much of the sky obscured by cloud.
Forecast models disagree.
22 Sep, 02:00 BST to 03:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Clearer spells are possible, but other forecasts keep much of the sky obscured by cloud.
Forecast models disagree.
22 Sep, 03:00 BST to 04:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects.
22 Sep, 04:00 BST to 04:50 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Gibbous moon, about 78% illuminated.
Moonrise around 21 Sep, 18:10 BST.
Moonset around 22 Sep, 01:00 BST.
Full darkness: 21 Sep, 21:35 BST to 22 Sep, 04:50 BST.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Draconids: peak around 9 October 2026.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Orionids: peak around 21 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 166 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Creag Meagaidh on Monday 21 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Wind15-35 mph southwesterlyGusts35-45 mphFeels like0 to 4°CPrecipitationAround 2-5 mmCloud-free summit estimate15%Cloud base through day600-1,100 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:02 · Sunset 19:18 · 12.3 hours daylight
The day on the hill
Frequent summit cloud on Creag Meagaidh: summit wind broadly 15-35 mph, with gusts 35-45 mph at times (strong winds). Hill cloud may make navigation difficult, with very poor visibility in wetter spells.
Wind & exposure
Much calmer lower down - generally 5-15 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.
Cloud & views
Cloud base around 600–900 m through the morning, lifting to 800–1100 m by late afternoon. Summit cloud is likely, but brief clear spells remain possible if the cloud sits higher than expected.
Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.
Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Any sunshine may be confined to lower ground or breaks away from the summit.
Rain & temperature
The ground is likely to be wet after recent rain. Rain and drizzle are forecast at times.
The forecast total is around 2-5 mm, but local amounts will vary.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Exposed tops may feel chilly in the wind.
A windproof layer will help, with an extra warm layer for stops. If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly.
Keep a dry warm layer protected. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges.
Forecast models differ on whether meaningful rain reaches the hills during the morning.
Cloud-free timing: Around 5% early, improving to around 30% later.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates Less than 1 hour of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period. Some forecast models bring rain during the morning, while others keep it mostly dry. Rain is possible during the main walking period, but its timing may shift by several hours.
10/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorRain eases compared with the morning. Summit winds around 15-25 mph. Gusts around 30-40 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is possible during the afternoon, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall. Rain is possible during the main walking period, but its timing may shift by several hours.
37/100
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaConditions look very good, but forecast uncertainty caps the grade at 88/100.88/100Excellent · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Tuesday 22 September 2026
Full overnight outlook
Open-hillside camping looks very good overall around 600 m (88/100). Light winds are expected on open ground, though local shelter and exposure still matter. Peak gusts range from about 15 mph at 300 m to 20 mph at 900 m. Little overnight rain is forecast. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Forecast models are not closely enough agreed for an exceptional grade. The grade is capped at 88/100.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 22 Sep, 17:00 BST to 23 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m88/100 · very good
Wind / gust
7 mph / 14 mph
Typical / low
7.5°C / 7.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m88/100 · very good
Wind / gust
9 mph / 17 mph
Typical / low
7.5°C / 7.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m87/100 · promising
Wind / gust
10 mph / 19 mph
Typical / low
5.9°C / 5.6°C · much of the night
In cloud
33% of modelled night
Condensation
Low
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 40 mph may affect balance on exposed rock.Poor0/100View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Micaceous psammite (Creag Meagaidh Psammite Formation). Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Semipelite, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 40 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust42 mphRain4.9 mm
Main factorsgusts around 40 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
2 rock types appear across the available route samples
The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.
Summit mapping
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation794–1,126 m samplesSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
BGS record →
Route sample
SemipeliteArdair Semipelite FormationAround 582 mSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaCloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-09-22. All times are UK local time.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 22 Sep, 21:30 BST to 22:00 BST.
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Moon-free dark sky: 23 Sep, 02:25 BST to 04:55 BST.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
22 Sep, 21:30 BST to 22:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
22 Sep, 22:00 BST to 23:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
22 Sep, 23:00 BST to 23 Sep, 00:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
23 Sep, 00:00 BST to 01:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
23 Sep, 01:00 BST to 02:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
23 Sep, 02:00 BST to 03:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
23 Sep, 03:00 BST to 04:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
23 Sep, 04:00 BST to 04:55 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Gibbous moon, about 85% illuminated.
Moonrise around 22 Sep, 18:20 BST.
Moonset around 23 Sep, 02:25 BST.
Full darkness: 22 Sep, 21:30 BST to 23 Sep, 04:55 BST.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Draconids: peak around 9 October 2026.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Orionids: peak around 21 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 166 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Creag Meagaidh on Tuesday 22 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Wind5-25 mph westerlyGusts20-30 mphFeels like-4 to 0°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate50%Cloud base through day800-2,300 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:04 · Sunset 19:15 · 12.2 hours daylight
The day on the hill
Frequent summit cloud on Creag Meagaidh: summit wind broadly 5-25 mph, with gusts 20-30 mph at times (a moderate breeze).
Cloud & views
Cloud base around 1000–1300 m in the morning, then around 2000–2300 m around midday and 800–1100 m by late afternoon. The top is likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a view from late morning into midday.
Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.
Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud. Drizzle is forecast at times.
The forecast total is up to around 2 mm, but local amounts will vary. Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 0 to 4°C, feeling around -4 to 0°C in the wind.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.
Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud, even where forecasts agree on the wider cloud cover.
Cloud-free timing: Around 70% early, falling to around 15% later.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 4.6 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
GoodSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 5-15 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
78/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedSummit winds around 5-20 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later.
63/100
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaGusts near 35 mph make meaningful shelter important.59/100Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Wednesday 23 September 2026
Full overnight outlook
Open-hillside camping looks mixed overall around 600 m (59/100). A lower pitch near 300 m looks more comfortable. Conditions are less suitable by 900 m. Open-ground gusts may reach about 35 mph. Seek meaningful shelter. Peak gusts range from about 25 mph at 300 m to 35 mph at 900 m. Wind direction may change substantially during the night. Shelter that works at dusk may be less effective later. Little overnight rain is forecast. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 300 and 600 m. Ventilation will matter. Around 600 m the low near 4.2°C is forecast for a brief spell.
Views of the Moon may come and go through cloud breaks. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 23 Sep, 17:00 BST to 24 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m64/100 · reasonable
Wind / gust
9 mph / 24 mph
Typical / low
6.2°C / 4.2°C · a brief spell
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m59/100 · mixed
Wind / gust
11 mph / 29 mph
Typical / low
6.2°C / 4.2°C · a brief spell
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
13 mph / 34 mph
Typical / low
4.5°C / 4.2°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 2°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely.Poor36/100View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Conditions for exposed scrambling look poor (36/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Micaceous psammite (Creag Meagaidh Psammite Formation). Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Semipelite, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust25 mphRain0.3 mm
Main factorswet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
2 rock types appear across the available route samples
The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.
Summit mapping
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation794–1,126 m samplesSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
BGS record →
Route sample
SemipeliteArdair Semipelite FormationAround 582 mSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaMostly clear skies are forecast. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-09-23. All times are UK local time.
Stargazing
Mixed sky conditions during the best available spell: 23 Sep, 21:25 BST to 22:00 BST.
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Moon-free dark sky: 24 Sep, 03:50 BST to 04:55 BST.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
23 Sep, 21:25 BST to 22:00 BST
Mixed sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
23 Sep, 22:00 BST to 23:00 BST
Mixed sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
23 Sep, 23:00 BST to 24 Sep, 00:00 BST
Mixed sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
24 Sep, 00:00 BST to 01:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
24 Sep, 01:00 BST to 02:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
24 Sep, 02:00 BST to 03:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud breaks may offer some views of the stars. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
24 Sep, 03:00 BST to 04:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects.
24 Sep, 04:00 BST to 04:55 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Gibbous moon, about 92% illuminated.
Moonrise around 23 Sep, 18:25 BST.
Moonset around 24 Sep, 03:50 BST.
Full darkness: 23 Sep, 21:25 BST to 24 Sep, 04:55 BST.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Draconids: peak around 9 October 2026.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Orionids: peak around 21 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 166 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Creag Meagaidh on Wednesday 23 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Wind35-55 mph southwesterlyGusts60-70 mphFeels like-8 to -4°CPrecipitationAround 2-5 mmCloud-free summit estimate50%Cloud base through day600-1,300 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:06 · Sunset 19:13 · 12.1 hours daylight
The day on the hill
Strong gusts and frequent summit cloud on Creag Meagaidh: summit wind broadly 35-55 mph, with gusts 60-70 mph at times (gale-force mean winds at times).
Wind & exposure
Much calmer lower down - generally 10-20 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops. Summit wind strength is uncertain: around 36-59 mph at walker height, with gusts 51-83 mph.
Check again nearer the time.
Cloud & views
Cloud base around 600–900 m in the morning, lifting to 1000–1300 m around midday and 900–1200 m by late afternoon. Summit cloud is likely to be limited early, becoming more extensive around midday.
Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.
Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Very little direct sunshine is likely, with extensive cloud.
Drizzle is forecast at times. The forecast total is around 2-5 mm, but local amounts will vary.
Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly -2 to 2°C, feeling around -8 to -4°C in the wind.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.
If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly. Keep a dry warm layer protected.
The strongest gusts could knock you over on exposed ground. Avoid exposed ridges and edges.
Summit wind could be roughly 36-59 mph, which changes how difficult exposed walking may feel.
Cloud-free timing: Around 55% early, falling to around 35% later.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 0 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 25-40 mph. Gusts around 45-55 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later. Rain is possible during the morning, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall.
46/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
Severe hill conditionsWinds strengthen compared with the morning. Summit winds around 40-50 mph. Gusts around 60-70 mph are possible on exposed ground. The strongest gusts could knock you over on exposed ground. Avoid exposed ridges and edges. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is possible during the afternoon, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall.
0/100
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 300, 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 70 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 50 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out.9/100Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Thursday 24 September 2026
Full overnight outlook
Exposed camping is not recommended near 300, 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 70 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 50 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (9/100). Peak gusts range from about 50 mph at 300 m to 70 mph at 900 m. Roughly 14.6 mm is forecast overnight, including rain around pitching time. Pitches near 600 and 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 600 and 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 7.4°C at 300 m to 4.9°C at 900 m.
Cloud at the reference camping height may hide the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 24 Sep, 17:00 BST to 25 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
30 mph / 51 mph
Typical / low
10.0°C / 7.4°C · several hours
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
37 mph / 62 mph
Typical / low
9.6°C / 7.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
53% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m0/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
43 mph / 72 mph
Typical / low
7.4°C / 4.9°C · a brief spell
In cloud
67% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 65 mph may affect balance on exposed rock.Poor0/100View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Micaceous psammite (Creag Meagaidh Psammite Formation). Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Semipelite, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 65 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust67 mphRain2.1 mm
Main factorsgusts around 65 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
2 rock types appear across the available route samples
The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.
Summit mapping
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation794–1,126 m samplesSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
BGS record →
Route sample
SemipeliteArdair Semipelite FormationAround 582 mSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaCloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-09-24. All times are UK local time.
Aurora outlook
Increased potential: activity may reach this horizon. Too early to forecast.
A broad activity outlook, not a forecast of a visible display. Cloud and activity can change before the night.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 24 Sep, 21:25 BST to 22:00 BST.
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
A bright Moon remains above the horizon through full darkness, washing out fainter stars and meteors.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
24 Sep, 21:25 BST to 22:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
24 Sep, 22:00 BST to 23:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
24 Sep, 23:00 BST to 25 Sep, 00:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
25 Sep, 00:00 BST to 01:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
25 Sep, 01:00 BST to 02:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
25 Sep, 02:00 BST to 03:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
25 Sep, 03:00 BST to 04:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
25 Sep, 04:00 BST to 05:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Near-full moon, about 96% illuminated.
Moonrise around 24 Sep, 18:30 BST.
Moonset around 25 Sep, 05:15 BST.
Full darkness: 24 Sep, 21:25 BST to 25 Sep, 05:00 BST.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Draconids: peak around 9 October 2026.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Orionids: peak around 21 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 166 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Creag Meagaidh on Thursday 24 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Wind25-35 mph westerlyGusts40-50 mphFeels like-4 to 0°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate55%Cloud base through day900-1,700 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:08 · Sunset 19:10 · 12.0 hours daylight
The day on the hill
On Creag Meagaidh: summit wind broadly 25-35 mph, with gusts 40-50 mph at times (strong winds).
Things to watch
Possible spate risk during the morning, after earlier rain. Timings are approximate, not a guarantee of safe crossings afterwards. Burns and unbridged crossings may rise quickly. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.
Wind & exposure
Much calmer lower down - generally 10-20 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.
Cloud & views
Cloud base around 900–1200 m in the morning, lifting to 1400–1700 m around midday. The top is likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a view from around midday into the evening.
Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.
Cloud may hang lower on western slopes and lift somewhat on the eastern side, but local terrain can differ. Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud.
Drizzle is forecast at times. The forecast total is up to around 2 mm, but local amounts will vary.
Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 2 to 6°C, feeling around -4 to 0°C in the wind. Forecast models differ on summit wind strength: around 22-38 mph at walker height, with gusts 30-54 mph.
Rain & temperature
The ground is likely to be wet after recent rain.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.
Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Summit wind could be roughly 22-38 mph, which changes how difficult exposed walking may feel.
Cloud-free timing: Around 20% early, improving to around 70% later.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 10.9 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 40-50 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is possible during the main walking period, but its timing may shift by several hours.
23/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later. Rain is possible during the main walking period, but its timing may shift by several hours.
52/100
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 900 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 30 mph at times. Lower sheltered ground may be less exposed, but this forecast does not confirm a suitable pitch or a safe approach. Check its overnight conditions separately.39/100Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Friday 25 September 2026
Full overnight outlook
Exposed camping is not recommended near 900 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 30 mph at times. Lower sheltered ground may be less exposed, but this forecast does not confirm a suitable pitch or a safe approach. Check its overnight conditions separately. Open-hillside camping looks poor overall around 600 m (39/100). Peak gusts range from about 30 mph at 300 m to 45 mph at 900 m. Little overnight rain is forecast. Pitches near 600 and 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 600 and 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 6.9°C at 300 m to 4.9°C at 900 m.
Cloud at the reference camping height may hide the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 25 Sep, 17:00 BST to 26 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m59/100 · mixed
Wind / gust
20 mph / 31 mph
Typical / low
7.3°C / 6.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
24 mph / 37 mph
Typical / low
7.1°C / 6.7°C · much of the night
In cloud
67% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m19/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
28 mph / 43 mph
Typical / low
5.1°C / 4.9°C · several hours
In cloud
87% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 45 mph may affect balance on exposed rock.Poor0/100View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Micaceous psammite (Creag Meagaidh Psammite Formation). Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Semipelite, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 45 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust45 mphRain0.3 mm
Main factorsgusts around 45 mphwet rock likely
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
2 rock types appear across the available route samples
The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.
Summit mapping
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation794–1,126 m samplesSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
BGS record →
Route sample
SemipeliteArdair Semipelite FormationAround 582 mSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaCloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-09-25. All times are UK local time.
Aurora outlook
Increased potential: activity may reach this horizon. Too early to forecast.
A broad activity outlook, not a forecast of a visible display. Cloud and activity can change before the night.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 25 Sep, 21:20 BST to 22:00 BST.
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
A bright Moon remains above the horizon through full darkness, washing out fainter stars and meteors.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
25 Sep, 21:20 BST to 22:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
25 Sep, 22:00 BST to 23:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
25 Sep, 23:00 BST to 26 Sep, 00:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
26 Sep, 00:00 BST to 01:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
26 Sep, 01:00 BST to 02:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
26 Sep, 02:00 BST to 03:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
26 Sep, 03:00 BST to 04:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
26 Sep, 04:00 BST to 05:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Mostly clear skies are forecast. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Near-full moon, about 99% illuminated.
Moonrise around 25 Sep, 18:35 BST.
Moonset around 26 Sep, 06:40 BST.
Full darkness: 25 Sep, 21:20 BST to 26 Sep, 05:00 BST.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Draconids: peak around 9 October 2026.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Orionids: peak around 21 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 166 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Creag Meagaidh on Friday 25 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Wind20-35 mph southwesterlyGusts35-45 mphFeels like-4 to 0°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate20%Cloud base through day700-1,200 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:10 · Sunset 19:07 · 11.9 hours daylight
The day on the hill
Frequent summit cloud on Creag Meagaidh: summit wind broadly 20-35 mph, with gusts 35-45 mph at times (strong winds).
Wind & exposure
Much calmer lower down - generally 10-20 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.
Cloud & views
Cloud base around 700–1000 m through the morning, lifting to 900–1200 m by late afternoon. Summit cloud is likely, but brief clear spells remain possible if the cloud sits higher than expected.
Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.
Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Any sunshine may be confined to lower ground or breaks away from the summit.
Rain & temperature
Little or no rain is forecast. Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 2 to 6°C, feeling around -4 to 0°C in the wind.
Forecast models disagree markedly on summit wind strength. Check again nearer the time.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.
Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Overall confidence is unavailable: insufficient comparable wind, rain guidance.
Cloud-free timing: Around 10% early, improving to around 30% later.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 10.9 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 30-40 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges.
34/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
PoorSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges.
32/100
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 300, 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 60 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 45 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out.9/100Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Saturday 26 September 2026
Full overnight outlook
Exposed camping is not recommended near 300, 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 60 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 45 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (9/100). Peak gusts range from about 45 mph at 300 m to 60 mph at 900 m. Roughly 9.2 mm is forecast overnight, including rain around pack-up. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 8°C at 300 m to 6°C at 900 m.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 26 Sep, 17:00 BST to 27 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m19/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
26 mph / 44 mph
Typical / low
8.6°C / 8.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
31 mph / 53 mph
Typical / low
8.4°C / 8.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
37 mph / 62 mph
Typical / low
6.3°C / 6.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
67% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 6°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaRock may be damp or still drying. Gusts near 40 mph may affect balance on exposed rock.Poor20/100View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Conditions for exposed scrambling look poor (20/100). Recent rain may leave seepage and damp rock, especially on shaded sections. The mapped summit rock is Micaceous psammite (Creag Meagaidh Psammite Formation). Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Semipelite, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 40 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.
Rock surfaceDry overhead; seepage uncertainPeak gust40 mphRain0.0 mm
Main factorsgusts around 40 mphdamp or incompletely dried rock possiblemuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
2 rock types appear across the available route samples
The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.
Summit mapping
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation794–1,126 m samplesSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
BGS record →
Route sample
SemipeliteArdair Semipelite FormationAround 582 mSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaCloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night beginning 2026-09-26. All times are UK local time.
Aurora outlook
Increased potential: activity may reach this horizon. Too early to forecast.
A broad activity outlook, not a forecast of a visible display. Cloud and activity can change before the night.
Stargazing
Poor sky conditions during the best available spell: 26 Sep, 21:15 BST to 22:00 BST.
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
A bright Moon remains above the horizon through full darkness, washing out fainter stars and meteors.
Sky conditions through the night
Fully dark periods. Conditions can change between forecast hours.
Time
Viewing conditions
26 Sep, 21:15 BST to 22:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
26 Sep, 22:00 BST to 23:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
26 Sep, 23:00 BST to 27 Sep, 00:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
27 Sep, 00:00 BST to 01:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
27 Sep, 01:00 BST to 02:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
27 Sep, 02:00 BST to 03:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
27 Sep, 03:00 BST to 04:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
27 Sep, 04:00 BST to 05:00 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
27 Sep, 05:00 BST to 05:05 BST
Poor sky conditions
Cloud is likely to obscure much of the sky. Rain may interrupt viewing. Reduced visibility may obscure faint objects. Moonlight washes out fainter stars.
Limited model coverage.
Moon, darkness and meteor showers
Near-full moon, about 100% illuminated.
Moonrise around 26 Sep, 18:40 BST.
Full darkness: 26 Sep, 21:15 BST to 27 Sep, 05:05 BST.
Moon times assume an open horizon. Hills can hide the Moon sooner. Moon-free does not mean cloud-free.
Southern Taurids are active on this night. Activity may be much lower away from the peak.
Draconids: peak around 9 October 2026.
Southern Taurids: peak around 10 October 2026.
Orionids: peak around 21 October 2026.
Northern Taurids: peak around 12 November 2026.
Leonids: peak around 18 November 2026.
Geminids: peak around 14 December 2026.
Ursids: peak around 22 December 2026.
Dates from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Activity dates do not guarantee visible meteors. Look across a broad, dark sky, not only north.
Darkness of the surroundings
Estimated darkness rank 166 of 980 assessed peaks (1 is darkest), based on surrounding artificial light in 2021. This is not a measurement of tonight’s sky.
2021 artificial-light baseline, not measured sky brightness or a Bortle class. Changes to lighting, blue-rich LEDs, terrain screening, atmospheric scattering and cloud-reflected light are not resolved. Similar ranks are not meaningfully distinct. Darkness is not a recommendation to climb a summit at night.
VIIRS nighttime lights: Earth Observation Group, Payne Institute for Public Policy, Colorado School of Mines. Reprocessed by OpenGeoHub/OpenLandMap. Cropped and ranked by Mountain Weather.
Sky-weather grades exclude light pollution, terrain and thin haze. They are not mountain safety ratings. Check the mountain and camping forecast separately. Accessible lower viewpoints may be a better choice than summits.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Creag Meagaidh on Saturday 26 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Wind25-35 mph southwesterlyGusts40-50 mphFeels like-6 to -2°CPrecipitationAround 2-5 mmCloud-free summit estimate55%Cloud base through day600-1,600 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:12 · Sunset 19:04 · 11.9 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A wet day on Creag Meagaidh: summit wind broadly 25-35 mph, with gusts 40-50 mph at times (strong winds).
Wind & exposure
Much calmer lower down - generally 5-15 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.
Cloud & views
Cloud base around 600–900 m in the morning, lifting to 1300–1600 m around midday. Summit cloud is extensive early, becoming less frequent later.
Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.
Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud. Drizzle is forecast for much of the day.
The forecast total is around 2-5 mm, but local amounts will vary. Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 0 to 4°C, feeling around -6 to -2°C in the wind.
Forecast models differ on summit wind strength. Treat the wind figures as a guide.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.
If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly. Keep a dry warm layer protected.
Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Overall confidence is unavailable: insufficient comparable wind, rain guidance.
Cloud-free timing: Around 5% early, improving to around 75% later.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 10.9 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
PoorSummit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 40-50 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period.
20/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period.
51/100
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaGusts near 35 mph make meaningful shelter important.59/100Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Sunday 27 September 2026
Full overnight outlook
Open-hillside camping looks mixed overall around 600 m (59/100). A lower pitch near 300 m looks more comfortable. Conditions are less suitable by 900 m. Open-ground gusts may reach about 35 mph. Seek meaningful shelter. Peak gusts range from about 25 mph at 300 m to 35 mph at 900 m. Around 1.7 mm is forecast, with rain liable to affect both pitching and packing up. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 5.9°C at 300 m to 4.1°C at 900 m.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 27 Sep, 17:00 BST to 28 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m73/100 · reasonable
Wind / gust
16 mph / 26 mph
Typical / low
6.3°C / 5.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m59/100 · mixed
Wind / gust
19 mph / 31 mph
Typical / low
6.3°C / 5.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
22 mph / 37 mph
Typical / low
4.6°C / 4.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
40% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 2°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 45 mph may affect balance on exposed rock.Poor6/100View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (6/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Micaceous psammite (Creag Meagaidh Psammite Formation). Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Semipelite, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 45 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust45 mphRain2.7 mm
Main factorsgusts around 45 mphwet rock likely
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
2 rock types appear across the available route samples
The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.
Summit mapping
Micaceous psammiteCreag Meagaidh Psammite Formation794–1,126 m samplesSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
BGS record →
Route sample
SemipeliteArdair Semipelite FormationAround 582 mSeen on Càrn Liath (Creag Meagaidh), Stob Poite Coire Àrdair and Creag Meagaidh
Dry quartz-rich bands can be grippy, while mica-rich or foliated sections, lichen and vegetation may become slippery when wet.
Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night.View forecastClose forecast
After dark: aurora and stargazing
Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Creag Meagaidh on Sunday 27 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
